It’s not surprising that, since they’re such integral parts of our lives, dogs are also part of our individual family histories, and the stories that come from them. When families get together for birthdays, holidays or just for fun, these stories tend to be trotted out and enjoyed once again by everyone. Here’s one we found enchanting, and we’re pleased to share it. Send us your family-dog photos and stories: familydog@thebark.com.

"My mother was born 1916 to immigrant parents; her mother was from Hungary and her father was German. She grew up in New Brunswick, N.J. Fido—who was, I think, a Border Collie mix—was their pet, but he was also a working dog, and he took his job quite seriously. My German grandfather was a butcher, and in those days (the 1920s), worked right next to the stockyard... " Click here to read the full story, "Put Fido on the Phone," by Toni Sebor Felt.